Project assistance completion report : special development activities II -- project 511-0623

The targeted number of self-help projects was reduced from 65 to 56 because of higher than expected costs. Project beneficiaries implemented a total of 22 (vs. a targeted 35) water, sanitation, and health activities, 15 (vs. a targeted 19) school construction and remodeling activities, and all 15 targeted income-generating activities. A total of 94 rural communities, organized around some type of institution (e.g., education or agricultural board, agricultural union, artisan center) were provided assistance. In all, there were about 16,500 beneficiaries, 40-50% of whom were women. The project succeeded both in fostering democratization and improving the lives of its beneficiaries. It encouraged participation by local governments and community organizations in support of Bolivia"s democratic initiatives, and it helped to accelerate decentralization and enhance local decision making. The project"s water, sanitation, and health activities undoubtedly reduced the incidence of diarrhea, the leading cause of sickness and death in Bolivia, by providing safe drinking, cooking, and bathing water and constructing latrines and health posts. School construction and remodeling, following better designs and structures, and the provision of equipment and faculty housing have motivated children to attend school and teachers to go the communities that offered the housing. Small activities, such as construction of artisan centers and donation of small agricultural tools, have helped to diversify and increase beneficiaries" incomes. A follow-on project -- SDA III -- is planned.